D Standard tuningD G C F
D standard lowers every bass string a whole step: D G C F.
Also called · Whole step down · DGCF
String chart
Tuning your bass to D Standard
- 1
Allow microphone access. For the most accurate reading, play close to the microphone and pluck firmly.
- 2
Play one string and let it sustain. Low notes take a moment longer to read, so hold the note.
- 3
Tighten the string if you're flat (needle left), loosen it if you're sharp (needle right).
- 4
Tip: the 12th-fret harmonic is an octave higher and often gives a steadier reading on the lowest strings.
Bass tunings
Questions & troubleshooting
- What are the notes of D Standard tuning?
- D Standard tuning on bass is D G C F, from the lowest string to the highest.
- How do I tune to D Standard from standard tuning?
- Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down a whole step, string 3 down a whole step, string 2 down a whole step, string 1 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
- Is D Standard tuning bad for my bass?
- No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.